Health facts

Avoid known carcinogens

Those factors in our environment that increase our likelihood of aquiring cancer are known as carcinogens (cancer causing agents), and should be avoided. Smoking is a known carcinogen, closely associated with lung cancer and bladder cancer. Excessive exposure to sunlight puts us at risk for aquiring skin cancer. Radiation too in a variety of forms is known to promote cancer. Alcohol has been shown to stimulate the growth of cancer. Although none of these are clearly associated with prostate cancer, it is in our general interest to eliminate them from our lives as best we can.

Do not be overly concerned with the latest "carcinogen-of-the-month," the most recent food or chemical that appears in the media as a link to cancer. Most of these are based on limited data, and are frequently contradicted by later studies.

Maintain a balanced, nutritional diet

Although no specific foods have been convincingly identified as carcinogenic, the National Cancer Institute has published guidelines that may be of benefit in resisting cancer. A high-fiber, low-fat diet with at least the minimum recommended dietry allowances (RDAs) for vitamins and minerals is advised.

High fat intake has been statistically associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Thus, it is best to limit consumption of such sources of dietary fat as beef, milk products, pork, and eggs.

Reduce stress

Stress can weaken the immune system, essential in fighting off the disease.

Maintain good health

This includes not only watching your diet, but also regular, moderate exercise and plenty of sleep. A stronger body is better able to resist the introduction or spread of disease.

Keep a positive attitude

We now know that an individual's emotions and attitude can impact his body's response to disease. A positive attitude can bolster the immune system as it wages war against the cancer.